The new breakfast and lunch spot in Brielle, Minnow’s, got its name in an endearing way. It comes from the nickname the owners’ son gave to his sister when she was born. The restaurant is owned by Chelsea Bryant and her husband, Cory.
Minnow’s boasts a dining room, coffee counter, and a retail/market section with dry goods and provisions. They sell a changing selection of items including elevated pantry staples and gifts. “My vision was to make our space welcoming and appealing to anyone and everyone,” Chelsea says. She adds that the décor is “coastal and clean.” Seasonal outdoor dining is available in front of their café.
Listen to The Best of New Jersey Podcast!
Early-Day Delights
According the Chelsea, Minnow’s focuses on “quality classic breakfast and lunch fare with down-to-earth and approachable original items.” They often run specials “that have a little extra flair” during the week as well. Their most popular breakfast dish is the breakfast burrito. This includes sausage, scrambled eggs, pepper jack cheese, crispy hash browns, avocado, black beans, pico de gallo, and chipotle mayo.
For lunch, the Big Dipper sandwich is a major hit. It packs slow-cooked shredded beef, sharp provolone, caramelized onions, and horseradish sauce into garlic ciabatta bread with au jus dip. Other fan favorites include The Woodrow – a homemade chicken salad sandwich on rye toast – and the turkey club. But Chelsea’s favorite dish is the chicken Caesar wrap, made with their house-made Caesar dressing. They also have gluten-free wraps and bread.
About the Owners
The Bryants were raised in nearby Manasquan and Brielle, both attending Manasquan High School. Cory, who has a culinary degree, has worked in the restaurant industry for more than 18 years. In fact, his family owned Gee Gees Pizza and Deli for over 30 years. He now owns Gee Gees Deli and Ice Cream in Manasquan.
Future plans include holding pop-up dinners, and expanding upon their current schedule of evening cooking classes.
Visit Minnows at 416 Higgins Ave in Brielle. Look for them online to learn more.
Minnow’s FAQs
All Photos: © Chelsea Bryant | Minnow’s